How to Drop Your Kid Off at Daycare With No Tears

A morning routine will reduce tears at daycare drop off.

Dropping a child off at daycare is a moment dreaded daily by both parents and children alike. While there are days that tears will be inevitable for you both, there are ways to make the moment of separation easier for you both. If tears at drop-off time become routine, talk to your child's teacher about methods that may work for you.

Develop a Routine

Create a morning routine so that your child will know what to expect every morning, recommends the website Parents Connect. Start your day early so that your child has time to wake up and eat, recommends the website What To Expect. This will help you avoid the crankiness that often occurs when young children are tired and hungry. Try to avoid changes in the routine that might lead your child to become upset, such as dropping your child off earlier or later than usual.

Talk About It

Talk to your child about the day ahead to help her get excited about what is to come and feel ready for the day. Discuss the fun activities she will take part in, such as coloring, playing outside with friends or building a tower with blocks. Make your child feel secure by describing how you will come to pick her up at the end of the day. Keep your tone positive.

Get Involved

Get your child settled and involved in an activity as quickly as possible when you arrive at daycare. An experienced daycare worker will understand your dilemma and should be on hand to divert your child's attention with a new toy or game so that you can say goodbye and get out the door. If your child's teacher is engaged with other parents, find a fun toy and play with your child for a few moments until he is engaged, then slip away. If possible, encourage your child to interact with other children in a game.

Be Quick

Stay with your child until she is involved in an activity, but do not linger; this may make your child think that you will be staying for the entire day. While it may be tempting to stay with your child as long as possible, drawing out the moment of goodbye can make the separation even more difficult for your child. Once your child is involved and happy, say a quick goodbye and then leave. A quick parting will make it easier on both you and your child to get on with your day.

References

• What To Expect: Crying at Drop-Off — Perfecting the Preschool Separation
• Parents Connect: Crying at Daycare Drop-Off